Kevin and co had enjoyed views of the Yellow-browed Warbler adjacent to Ivy South prior to my arrival but needless to say it wasn't showing. Luckily, someone refound it and it showed distantly on and off generally amongst the usual winter flock members, tits, Goldcrests and Treecreepers. Unlike the Titchfield bird it didn't utter a peep. Two Lesser Redpolls and three male Bullfinches were near the boardwalk. (Just over 40 years since the Titchfield 'in the hand' YBW; can't find any notes for the bird at Broadmarsh somewhen in the '90s).
Across the road this Water Pipit, the Linnet flock, a Grey Wagtail on the far shore(!!), a few Goosanders but no sign of much else. A good 300 Lapwing were up and about but just one each of Buzzard and Marsh Harrier.
Later at Piper's Wait pretty much nil until four incredibly tiny silhouettes way out on ?? hill had the feel of Crossbills and obliged a few minutes later by flying overhead 'chip-chipping' as they went eastwards.
Minor chores then a quick watch on a dropping tide at Farlington where the lake level is now too high for waders so no snipe spp. Another Marsh Harrier but little else and another blank on Barnacle Goose; the Avocet flock was visible from the car. However, a quick look at Baffins produced the missing goose still in company of its dodgy white chum. And a long chat then ensued with MW about birds of Portsea, looking like two old geezers from Last of the Summer Wine to all the passing Mums and dog-walkers!!
